All ethnology museums to visit in Missouri

Explore the cultural diversity and heritage at 10 ethnology museums in Missouri. These museums offer insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of various communities.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in Missouri:

  1. The Griot Museum of Black History1

    The Griot Museum of Black History

     St. Louis, MO
    The Griot Museum of Black History, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a wax museum that was established in 1997. It was initially known as The Black World History Wax Museum, but the name was changed to The Griot Museum of Black History in 2009. The term 'griot' in some West African countries refers to a historian, storyteller, praise singer, poet, or musician who is a repository of oral tradition and is often seen as a societal leader who preserves and shares cultural traditions of a community.
  2. The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum2

    The Centre for French Colonial Life & the Bolduc House Museum

     Ste. Genevieve, MO
    The Louis Bolduc House, also known as Maison Bolduc, is a historic house museum located at 123 South Main Street in Ste. Geneviève, Missouri. This house is a significant example of poteaux sur solle ("posts-on-sill") construction, a traditional French Colonial architectural style of the early 18th century. It was the first historic structure in Ste. Geneviève to be authentically restored and was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1970.
  3. Museum at the Gateway Arch3

    Museum at the Gateway Arch

     St. Louis, MO
    Base of the Arch offers the journey back in time to the 19th century migration, Native Americans' life and westward expansion.
  4. Deutschheim State Historic Site4

    Deutschheim State Historic Site

     Hermann, MO
    The Deutschheim State Historic Site, located in Hermann, Missouri, is a state-owned property that preserves a variety of historic structures. These include houses, a barn, and a winery, all of which were built and utilized by German immigrants in the mid-19th century. This site offers a unique glimpse into the lives and experiences of these immigrants during this period.
  5. Bruce R. Watkins Center5

    Bruce R. Watkins Center

     Kansas City, MO
    Several monuments have been erected in honor of Bruce Riley Watkins, including the Spirit of Freedom fountain at Brush Creek Boulevard and Cleveland Avenue, and the Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center at Blue Parkway and Cleveland Avenue. Additionally, Bruce R. Watkins Drive, a major thoroughfare in Kansas City, was completed on October 22, 2001. All these landmarks are within walking distance of the Watkins Brothers Memorial Chapel, a family business co-founded by Theron Watkins.
  6. Missouri State Museum6

    Missouri State Museum

     Jefferson City, MO
    The Missouri State Museum, established in 1919, is situated in Jefferson City, Missouri. The museum is conveniently located on the ground floor of the state capitol building. This location not only provides easy access for visitors but also adds a historical significance to the museum itself.
  7. Trailside Center7

    Trailside Center

     Kansas City, MO
    The Trailside Center, located in Kansas City, Missouri, serves multiple roles as a tourist center, museum, and community facility. It is a place where visitors can learn about the local history and culture, while also participating in community events.
  8. 8

    Kansas City Irish Center

     Kansas City, MO
    The Kansas City Irish Center hosts a variety of cultural events, including Irish Whiskey tastings and concerts featuring local Irish musicians. These events are popular among both locals and tourists, offering a unique opportunity to experience Irish culture in the heart of Kansas City.
  9. 9

    Black Archives of Mid-america

     Kansas City, MO
    Dedicated to collecting and preserving the rich history of African Americans. Lots of artifacts to see. Come if interested!
  10. 10

    CClay County Museum and Historical Society

     Liberty, MO
    The Clay County Historical Society Museum, located in Liberty, Missouri, is housed in a historic building dating back to 1865. This local history museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region in a setting that is itself a part of that history.